Can You Plant Two Herbs in the Same Pot?

Gardening enthusiasts are often faced with the question of whether they can plant two or more herbs in the same pot. The answer to this is a resounding yes, but it comes with some important considerations you need to keep in mind to ensure the success of your herb garden. In this article, we look at some of the essential factors to consider when planting multiple herbs in the same container.

The Size of the Pot

The size of the pot you use will depend on how many herbs you intend to plant. The general rule of thumb is to have one gallon of soil per plant, which means that if you are planting, say, three herbs, you will need a three-gallon pot. It's important to give each herb ample space to grow, thrive and receive adequate sunlight and nutrients.

The Type of Herbs You Want to Plant Together

Some herbs grow better when planted together than others. Some will thrive individually, while others can intermingle, complementing each other in the process. When deciding what herbs to plant together, consider the following:

Complementary Taste: Some herbs taste better when combined. For example, parsley goes well with sage, thyme, and rosemary, while basil pairs with oregano and chives.

Complementary Growth Conditions: Make sure the herbs you choose to plant together have similar watering, light, and temperature needs. For instance, thyme and oregano are drought-resistant herbs and can grow well together, while basil and mint prefer moist soil.

Incompatible Herbs: Some herbs don't grow well when planted together. For example, rosemary prefers a dry soil, while parsley prefers a consistently moist one. Therefore, planting these two together will only result in one or both suffering.

Planting Procedure

The first step in planting multiple herbs in one pot is to ensure each herb has enough space to grow. Start by filling your pot with nutrient-rich soil and make small holes in the soil where each herb will be planted. Then, gently tap the container holding the plant's roots to loosen the soil before transplanting it into the pot. Cover the roots with soil, ensuring you leave a space of at least one inch between the soil and the pot's rim to ensure there is room for watering.

After planting the herbs, water them properly and place the container in a spot with ample sunlight. Remember, herbs can share in the benefits of life with companion plants, including increased resistance to pests and improved growth. Therefore, consider planting companion plants to enhance the health of your herb garden. Examples of companion plants for herbs include marigolds, chives, and petunias.

Final Thoughts

Planting two or more herbs in the same pot is a great way to save space, introduce variety, and create a beautiful herb garden. When selecting which plants to combine, always consider each herb's growth requirements and how they may interact with each other. Plant them in a large enough container to give them enough space to grow and add some companion plants to enhance the health and beauty of your herb garden. Following these simple tips will help ensure you successfully cultivate a thriving herb garden.